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Seeing as how I was the poster you disagree with, let me expound a bit. Somewhat undemocratic methods are an absolute necessity to protect minority rights.
As an example: there is no more anti-democratic institution than the Supreme court. Appointed for life by one man, confirmed by 51 others, who are themselves not elected in such a manner that everyone gets an equal vote. We, the people have absolutely NO voice in their selection.
Yet, historically, the SC has been the most powerful, and important, protection for minorities and unpopular political positions. This may be about to change, but that is another story.
If the Supreme Court does change, it will be important to have other power centers to oppose them. As long as we remain in the minority we will need them. (Please, let's not get off on how we are the real, true majority. The Repukes, whether they got there legitimately or otherwise, are in the seats of power. Officially, they got the most votes. I'm trying to deal with that reality, and election theft is another subject)
No system yet created by man is perfect. I doubt one ever will be created. As long as that is so, sometimes the bad guys are going to win the battles. I like the fact that institutions are in place to slow them up, in our country, at least. Sometimes that means that progressive positions will be slowed up, too. That may be a price that we have to pay.
But think how much progressivism has advanced since the days when the Constitution was written as opposed to the advances it made in all of history previously. It's not like the idea of the community sharing its goods with the less fortunate is new. The early Christians practiced it. The Old Testament Hebrews were commanded to remember the poor.
And, without the check and balances of the United States Constitution, the progressive revolutions of many countries, France, Russia, Cambodia spring to mind, have been nightmares of mass murder and genocide. I think the faults of the USA, and they are many,fade next to these horrors.
Now, there is plenty of room for disagreement with this position. But remember, whatever non-tyrannical solution that you come up with, the conservative party, whether Republican or some new one, will win from time to time. So junking the system because it didn't work the way you wanted it to do is a step that should be taken only after serious and prolonged consideration, and not in a mood of frustration and despair.
I trust that this clarifies my position on this issue for you, and I would be glad to continue it as I can.
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